I’ve noticed quite a few changes on my walks around downtown Austin, which means it’s time for another construction update. It’s interesting to compare this entry with my last update in July. With one exception, the in-flight projects are moving right along. Several new projects have been started, and we even have a new bridge.
The Fairmont Austin on Cesar Chavez near I-35 is starting to rise above ground level now. Like the JW Marriott, this 37-floor hotel will boast over 1000 rooms.
The new UT System Administration building on West Seventh is also rising above street level now.
Apparently, downtown Austin still needs more hotel rooms. Adding a total of 422 rooms, an Aloft and an Element hotel will share the corner of Seventh and Congress.
A two-story historic building on Congress Avenue next to the JW Marriott has been completely gutted and rebuilt over the past year. Cooper’s BBQ is expected to open there soon.
There’s been very little progress on Hotel Zaza (in the foreground) since my July update. On the other hand, windows are now being installed on the new office building, 5th+Colorado.
Concrete pouring is in progress for the second tower on West Second Street. Google plans to occupy about half of this building when it opens next year. In the background of my photo is the Northshore, a mixed-use project of apartments, office space, and restaurants that will also open in 2016.
The “Butterfly Bridge” now spans Shoal Creek. This bright yellow structure will extend Second Street to the west and connect to the Seaholm area.
Exterior glass has been installed at the Seaholm Residences. Occupancy of this 280-unit condo building is expected to start later this year.
And our new Central Library on Cesar Chavez is looking fine. Looking forward to that November 2016 opening!
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